Vic’s Restaurante Português receives a makeover from executive chef Martinho Moniz
Martinho Moniz provides a modern twist on the presentation of familiar Portuguese plates
Located at the colonial-style Rocks Hotel at the end of Fisherman’s Wharf, Vic’s Restaurante Português takes a modern look at traditional Portuguese ingredients and dishes. Executive chef Martinho Moniz, who opened Hong Kong’s first traditional Portuguese restaurant, Casa Lisboa, and went on to be head chef at Guincho a Galera in Macau, keeps the flavours simple and clean.
The interior too is modern, with traditional elements such as the blue and white azulejo panels on the walls, and similar designs on the chair upholstery and curtains. Otherwise, the flooring and tables are wooden with black iron chandeliers hanging from the high ceiling. Bathed in natural light, the restaurant has a harbour view and a patio where diners can dine by the sea.
There is a bar for pre-dinner drinks and an open kitchen at the end of the dining room. The menu offers familiar Portuguese plates, but Moniz puts a modern twist on the presentation.
An Iberico platter with home-made bread and olive oil whetted our appetite, followed by charcoal-smoked sardines on corn bread and tomato concasse. The generous portion of sardines went perfectly with the corn bread and tomatoes.
